Anatomy of a Sin - June 1 Readings: 2 Samuel 11, John 9:1–18, Psalm 69:7–13, Proverbs 14:8–9

Links to June 1 Readings: 2 Samuel 11, John 9:1–18, Psalm 69:7–13, Proverbs14:8–9

2 Samuel 11 is the turning point of the book. In chapters 1-10, David experiences one blessing and one victory after another. From chapter 12 on, David's life is filled with heartbreak, challenges and tragedy in both his family and in his nation. Of course, in chapter 11, the "man after God's heart" wanders away from God and into sin - his infamous sin with Bathsheba.

There are several things we can see in this chapter that can give us some insight into David's sin and failure.

1) David stayed home during "the spring when kings march out to war." Of course, sin can blindside us any time, but when we are in retreat mode, when we are not serving God and do what he has called us to do we make ourselves more susceptible to temptation.

2) All sexual sin boils down to one moment. David spied the beautiful Bathsheba from his palace and he had a choice. He could do the right thing and turn his back on another man's wife. Or, he could choose to take that one step down the path of adultery from which there is seldom a return. He made the wrong choice and sent for Bathsheba.

3) Sin has consequences. This one certainly did; a baby was going to be born. Not all sin has consequences as dramatic and public as this one, but all sin brings undesirable consequences into our lives. When you mae the choice to sin, you can be sure that the consequences will come.

4) Sinners generally try to hide the sin instead of dealing with it. David did. He tried to orchestrate events so that he would escape detection and no one would find out about his sin.

5) The attempt at covering sin usually leads to worse sin. David committed adultery. In attempting to cover up the adultery, he ended up being responsible for the killing of a good and honorable man. Rather than repent, he doubled down on his wickedness.

6) As we know from Psalm 51, there is only one way to actually deal with sin. David eventually repented of his sin and was forgiven (thought the consequences continued the rest of his life). Covering sin only makes it worse. God forgives and restores the repentant.

Father, I want to walk in righteousness, but when I stray into sin, may I repent and forsake that sin quickly before I compound it.